Presenter Information

Academic Level at Time of Presentation

Sophomore

Major

Public Relations

Minor

Legal Studies

List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)

Dr. Bellarmine Ezumah

Presentation Format

Oral Presentation

Abstract/Description

When one hears the word “Tinder,” it is likely that certain stereotypes of the online dating app come to mind. Tinder is a location-based, social dating app launched in 2012, and has become an important tool in the dating world, especially among college-aged users. However, the app has developed a notorious reputation due to the significant amount of users searching for hook-ups, although many other users have found long-term partners and even spouses.

In our research, we conducted an anonymous, online survey with close to a hundred participants, as well as recorded face-to-face interviews with students on the Murray State campus.

Our data shows that many of the stereotypes include that the main use of Tinder is for “sex and hookups” and included adjectives such as “desperate” and “creepy.” However, many of our participants also reported to meeting their long-term partners and have even married the partner whom they met on Tinder. In the case of those who became married, some admitted to being embarrassed and lying to their family about how they met. In the video, many participants were also embarrassed and hesitant to speak their true thoughts and assumptions of the app.

Our research proves that these stereotypes and stigma of Tinder still exist, despite the positive results and experiences with the app.

Location

South Lobby, Waterfield Library

Start Date

November 2016

End Date

November 2016

Affiliations

JMC330

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Nov 17th, 1:30 PMNov 17th, 3:30 PM

Tinder and the Stereotypes of Online Dating

South Lobby, Waterfield Library

When one hears the word “Tinder,” it is likely that certain stereotypes of the online dating app come to mind. Tinder is a location-based, social dating app launched in 2012, and has become an important tool in the dating world, especially among college-aged users. However, the app has developed a notorious reputation due to the significant amount of users searching for hook-ups, although many other users have found long-term partners and even spouses.

In our research, we conducted an anonymous, online survey with close to a hundred participants, as well as recorded face-to-face interviews with students on the Murray State campus.

Our data shows that many of the stereotypes include that the main use of Tinder is for “sex and hookups” and included adjectives such as “desperate” and “creepy.” However, many of our participants also reported to meeting their long-term partners and have even married the partner whom they met on Tinder. In the case of those who became married, some admitted to being embarrassed and lying to their family about how they met. In the video, many participants were also embarrassed and hesitant to speak their true thoughts and assumptions of the app.

Our research proves that these stereotypes and stigma of Tinder still exist, despite the positive results and experiences with the app.